MLSE LaunchPad announced as official name of MLSE Foundation's Sport For Development facility

TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2015 /CNW/ - MLSE Foundation is proud to announce MLSE LaunchPad as the name of the charitable organization's new Sport For Development facility set to open in 2017. In addition, MLSE Foundation announced the launch of a $6 million capital fundraising campaign to support the construction, programming and legacy of MLSE LaunchPad.

At a press conference this past April, MLSE Foundation and Toronto Community Housing unveiled the plan to build a facility on the ground floor of 261 Jarvis Street. Once the intended site of a community roller rink, the 42,000 square foot space will be transformed into a collaborative centre that will focus on the health and mental development of Toronto youth through sport, education and research.

"MLSE LaunchPad is the first facility of its kind in North America, built to provide sport and life skills programming for thousands of at-risk youth living in the Greater Toronto Area," said Michael Bartlett, Executive Director, MLSE Foundation. "Our multisport courts and classrooms will provide youth with access to a space where they can get moving, get inspired and learn to compete in life. This project is a big step forward in our vision to improve the lives of kids through sport."

MLSE LaunchPad will include multi-purpose sport courts, classrooms and a teaching kitchen. The new facility will feature Sport For Development programming with the support of professional sports teams and in collaboration with our community and academic partners. Programs will focus on four pillars with sports at the core: healthy body, healthy mind, ready for school and ready for work.

Since launching in 2009, MLSE Foundation has invested more than $19 million into the Toronto community.  Together with its community partners, they have positively impacted the lives of youth and their families through sports grants, programs and facility revitalizations.

MLSE Foundation
The MLSE Foundation believes all kids should have access to sport and the opportunity to develop lasting dreams on the playing field. With the support of MLSE's teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC and the Toronto Marlies, the Foundation funds the refurbishment of local athletic facilities and programs that support kids through sport and recreation. For more information visit mlsefoundation.org or follow @MLSEFoundation.

SOURCE MLSE Foundation

Melissa Perri, MLSE, [email protected], 416-815-5524